Importance of Play and Creativity

"Play is a natural channel for young children's thinking, learning and development and is central to their holistic well-being. All children need and have a right to play" (DCCC 2012). This module will provide theoretical foundations of play and seeks to define and clarify play. The learner will explore how even the most everyday activities can become a valuable learning experience for children birth to six years old. Types of play will be explored to stimulate all areas of development and learning including imaginative play, messy play, creative play, social and emotional play and physical play. The module will identify strategies for the learner to support children's play and along with a spirit of inquiry and dedication to children's well-being the learner will engage in reflection and self evaluation. The learner will be introduced to Aistear (2009) The National Early Childhood Curriculum Framework which is based on the idea that children learn through active participation with their environment and that this is best achieved through play.

1. Define and clarify the meaning of play.

2. Demonstrate knowledge of types of play that stimulate all areas of development and learning.

3. Identify strategies to support young children's play.

4. Demonstrate an understanding of how Aistear promotes a curriculum for play.